Madame Théodore Gobillard (Yves Morisot)

Art Historical Context

Edgar Degas's *Madame Théodore GobillardYves Morisot)*, created in 1869, the poised profile of a woman from the Morisot family close friends and associates of the artist. At just 18 7/8 × 11 13/16 inches, this intimate pastel portrait exemplifies Degas's early mastery of modern portraiture, shifting from classical themes toward everyday subjects. Rendered during a pivotal time when Degas was forging ties with fellow innovators like the Morisots—linked to Impressionism through Berthe Morisot—it reflects the social circles of Paris's cultural elite. Executed in pastel, a medium Degas would late...

About the Artist

Edgar Degas · 1834–1917

Edgar Degas (1834-1917) stands as one of the most innovative artists of the nineteenth century, whose distinctive vision transformed how modern life could be depicted on canvas. Born Hilaire-Germain-Edgar De Gas in Paris to a wealthy banking family—his father French, his mother a Louisiana Creole from New Orleans—Degas received a classical education before abandoning law studies in 1855 to pursue ...